Skip to main content

Stovetop Quinoa

This grain-like seed is quick to cook and has an earthy flavor that goes well in salads, soups and stews.
Bowls of cooked quinoa.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Makes: 3 cups
Nutrition Facts: View label

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa (if not pre-rinsed, rinse well using a fine-mesh strainer)
2 cups water
¼ teaspoon salt (optional)

Directions

  1. Wash hands with soap and water.
  2. In a saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add quinoa and salt, if desired, and return the mixture to a boil.
  3. Reduce heat to low, cover pan and simmer for 12 minutes.
  4. Turn off heat and let stand until water is absorbed and quinoa has the texture you like, about 5 to 10 minutes.
  5. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • For more flavor, cook with broth or milk instead of water.
  • For a roasted flavor, toast the grains in the saucepan. Stir the grains around at medium heat for a few minutes before adding liquid.
  • Topping ideas: fresh, frozen or dried fruit; milk or yogurt; chopped nuts or seeds; cinnamon or other spices. Savory toppings include vegetables and cheese.
  • Add to soups, grain bowls or grain salads.
  • No strainer? Use a clean coffee filter.

Comments

This is a no-fail way to cook quinoa. Turning off the heat and letting it sit to soak up remaining water keeps it from being soggy and overcooked.

You might also like...

Recipes A to Z (without photos)

Creole Seasoning
Creole seasoning mix shown with crawfish, lemon, potato and corn.

Creole Seasoning

Add savory flavor to your favorite vegetables, grains, meats, fish, seafood, poultry, soups and stews!
Prepare:
5 minutes
Makes:
about ½ cup
Fried Rice with Pork
Colorful plate of sautéed rice, pork and vegetables with a soy sauce glaze.

Fried Rice with Pork

A simple and adaptable recipe that uses any vegetables you have on hand.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Makes:
4 cups
Roasted Radishes with Peas
Plates of a vibrant pea and radish mix.

Roasted Radishes with Peas

Mild, slightly sweet, roasted radishes paired with bright and creamy peas make the perfect side to a spring or summer meal.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
2 cups
Sautéed Peppers
Bowl of tender bell pepper and onion slices.

Sautéed Peppers

These sauteed sweet peppers and onions are delicious enjoyed on their own, added to sandwiches or pasta, or with fajitas.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
4 cups
Personalized Pasta Salad
Bowl of spiral pasta, chicken and vegetables.

Personalized Pasta Salad

Enjoy this quick salad in less than 30 minutes.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
4 cups
Turkey Ginger Rice Lettuce Wraps
Plate of lettuce boats filled with a turkey and carrot mix.

Turkey Ginger Rice Lettuce Wraps

Fresh and filling meal with a warm blend of rice, vegetables and a savory sauce.
Prepare:
20 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
6 cups